Tour
2,9 km
1h10
20 audios
Text version
Welcome to Orange; one city, 20 centuries of history!
No wonder the Romans settled here: Orange is perfectly situated and brimming with potential. Today, it’s in the Vaucluse region, but, back then, it sat at a crossroads between the North, Spain and Italy. And, as if that weren’t enough, the land was also very fertile. So, you’ve guessed it, over 2,000 years ago, the Romans set up camp around the Saint-Eutrope Hill, leaving behind some extraordinary ruins. Orange boasts not just one, but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites! Its Triumphal Arch and the stunning Roman Theatre are among the best preserved in the world, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Yet the city has much more to offer!
This short, in-depth tour over a few kilometers will take you on a journey through the centuries to experience Antiquity, as if you were actually there. You’ll get to discover the medieval history of the Principality of Orange, learn all about the Wars of Religion and, if you’re up for it, climb to the top of the hill overlooking the city for breathtaking views.
You don't want to miss the botanical walk – it's your gateway to the Saint-Eutrope hill! All you have to do is follow the Julia Barthet slope, which opens out before you and takes you to the park's staircase entrance. Read more
It's no surprise that the rue de l'ancien hôpital leads you right to the entrance of the former Hôtel-Dieu. This hospice, dedicated to caring for the poorest of the poor, was commissioned by Maurice de Nassau Read more
This small 14th-century Romanesque church is the former chapel of the Franciscans of Orange. It served as the final resting place for many of the lords from the House of Baux Read more
The beautiful Mounet brothers' square invites you to soak up the sunshine on one of its terraces. It's named after Jean and Paul Mounet, two brothers born in Bergerac in the 1840s Read more
We're heading up the wide avenue in front of you to reach the impressive Triumphal Arch. If you're visiting Orange during the summer months, you can take the free shuttle buses provided by the city. Read more
You're now standing in front of the entrance of the former cathedral of Notre-Dame of Nazareth, listed as a historical monument. It was the episcopal seat of Orange until 1801, before being downgraded when the bishopric Read more
You're now at the very heart of the city. Talk about a lively spot! Georges Clémenceau square was practically built for good times. It dates all the way back to the 14th century. Read more
Next stop on Rue Victor Hugo is Langes Square. It's the small square to your right, just behind the town hall. It used to be the private garden and orangery of the Lubières family mansion Read more
You've reached the Place de la République, a charming central square buzzing with cafés and restaurants. The statue right in the middle depicts a knight in chainmail Read more
Imagine yourself a Roman in the 1st century AD, arriving at the northern gate of Arausio along the Via Agrippa. You're awestruck by this imposing, newly-built monument that stands as a symbol of Rome's supremacy. Read more
You're now crossing the Meyne river. It's a tributary of the Rhône, flowing through Orange and Caderousse. But don't be fooled by its peaceful looks; the Meyne has caused some pretty epic floods in the past Read more
On your right is the entrance to the Auguste Gasparin park. This lovely green space was named after an illustrious Orange family who owned a manor house with a beautiful garden at this very spot. Read more
Now, Orange does not only have an ancient theatre, but also a magnificent municipal theatre, which is listed as a historical monument. It was built in the late 19th century by André Jean Boudoy Read more
From here, you have a bird's-eye view of the Saint-Eutrope hill, once home to the castle of the princes of Orange-Nassau. Our initial tour took you as close as possible to these remains to tell you their story Read more
In the 16th century, with a Protestant prince at the helm, Orange became a true stronghold of the Protestant Reformation, in a France literally torn apart by the Wars of Religion. Read more
You've reached the André Bruey Square, named after the former mayor of Orange. Standing here, it's hard to imagine the horrors that unfolded at this very spot centuries ago. Read more
The ruins you see before you, protected by a railing and surrounded by a wooden walkway for better viewing, are all that remains of the ancient Roman Forum. Its construction most likely dates back to the 1st century BC Read more
A city dripping with history like Orange is bound to have a fantastic Museum of Art and History. It's right here, just across the street, housed in this 16th-century mansion built for Georges Van Cuyl. Read more
Yep, you've guessed it! Behind this spectacular 37-metre-high wall lies the city's internationally renowned showpiece, the famous Roman Theatre of Orange. We had actually planned to take you up to the Saint-Eutrope hill for better views, but unfortunately it's off-limits today. Read more
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DownloadNow that Orange has shown you all its secrets and you’ve admired all these wonders of antiquity, why not venture further and discover what other surprises the region holds?
The Vaucluse is full of treasures. You could, for example, explore the Dentelles de Montmirail. “Dentelles” is French for “lace”, and, living up to its name, this mountain range features lace-like peaks sculpted by centuries of erosion. This exceptional natural site, less than 20km from Orange, will delight climbing and hiking enthusiasts.
Nestled right at the heart of the Côtes du Rhône vineyards, the 12th century Suze-la-Rousse castle is also well worth a visit. Because of its strategic position on a rocky promontory, it was first converted into a military fortress, and only later into a grand mansion. Its eclectic architecture gives us one of the most beautiful Italianate courtyards in France.
Calling all connoisseurs! If you’re a wine lover, this is the region for you! The wine route from Orange to Vaison-la-Romaine will take you through exceptional vineyards, where you’ll get to learn about many great wines, including the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
If the Roman ruins of Orange left you spellbound, head to Vaison-la-Romaine next. Here you’ll discover two vast Gallo-Roman quarters and an impressive archaeological museum, a tribute to the city’s rich past. Don’t miss the Roman bridge spanning the Ouvèze river with a single arch, and the feudal castle of the Counts of Toulouse, with its magnificent Romanesque cathedral!
Now, if you’re in the mood to visit some charming little villages, you’re spoilt for choice. Aiguèze is a medieval hilltop village just 27km from Orange. Overlooked by the remnants of its fortress, the site promises magnificent views over the Ardèche gorges. La Roque-sur-Cèze is another great option, home to a Romanesque chapel, a medieval bridge and the remains of a castle. This village is nestled amidst stunning landscapes; while you’re there, don’t miss a visit to the Sautadet waterfalls with their spectacular giants’ cauldrons, the “marmites des géants”.
If it’s otherworldly beauty you seek, be sure to explore the marvellous underground world of the Orgnac sinkhole. Listed as a Great Site of France, this spectacular cave takes you deep into the bowels of the Earth, to tour grandiose chambers filled with impressive rock formations. Descend 121 meters below ground to watch a captivating sound and light show and top it all off with a visit to the on-site museum of prehistory.
For those who prefer the great outdoors, an escapade in the Barronies Provençales Regional Nature Park is a must. Visit this natural reserve, located between the departments of Drôme and Ardèche, and off to explore 1,800km² of protected wilderness! Limestone mountains rise up amid lavender and olive groves, and reveal their beauty as you hike along many trails. It’s also the perfect place to get your adrenalin pumping. Choose between rock climbing, via ferrata, canyoning and paragliding and experience the region in a whole new way.
And how could we forget the Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient work of art, built by our ancestors in the 1st century AD in a mere five years, brought running water to Nîmes for 500 years! Today, it’s the largest ancient bridge ever built and a must-see in France. If you want find out more about it, check our dedicated article.
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